Multi-Cultural Expo Feb. 24

Coming to Rockford on Sunday, Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. is Multi-Cultural Expo 2002, presented by the Northwest Community Center. The Multi-Cultural Expo is one of the last major events taking place in February to commemorate Black History Month. This event will highlight merchants, businesses and entrepreneurs from Rockford, Chicago, Beloit, and Milwaukee, Wis. and Gary, Indiana. It will showcase African art, sculptures, figurines, dolls, paintings, all types of music, clothing, knick-knacks, photography, modeling, educational services, newspapers and magazines. John Robert Powers of Chicago is giving away a free photo shot at their booth and will be scouting for models and talent.

Rock Valley College will have admission reps available to pass out information about all academic programs and answer questions about admission, registration, financial aid and computer classes now offered at Northwest Community Center. J. Staffing Solutions will be taking applications for employment. Owner Tony Hunt of 3Ts Barber will be on hand to hook people up with the latest in hairstyles. Family Counseling Services will be taking duck adoptions for this summers Rock River Duck Race. Rockford Health Systems will have health care information and two nurses available for blood pressure screening from 10 a.m. until noon.

Admission to the Multi-Cultural Expo is only $3, and children 10 and under get in free. Door prizes will be given out every hour. Giveaways include art, ceramics, season pass to this years new Forest City Gladiators semi-professional football team, a free 10-week modeling and talent training session with John Robert Powers in Chicago, and more. Food will be available.

A special recognition ceremony will also take place to honor leaders of color with an award given to Rockfords first Spirit of the Community recipient, Illinois Extraordinaire 2002 recipient Michelle Williams of Destinys Child, Young Heroes of America recipient Oprah Winfrey. Michelle Williams will also receive another great honor from the City of Rockford and Mayor Doug Scott will issue a declaration proclaiming Feb. 24, 2002 Michelle Williams Day of Destiny.

People from all cultures are encouraged to come out and be a part of Rockfords first and NWCCs first annual Multi-Cultural Expo and special recognition ceremony. This event will conclude Black History Month by bringing fun, food, exhibitors and entertainment under one roof from across the region. For more information, contact Takiyah Franklin at (815) 964-6885.